A new face will join Spartanburg District Five Schools to lead the district’s personnel department, as well as enhance staff recruitment and retention efforts, following unanimous approval from the Board of Trustees.
Robert Jackson has been selected as District Five’s new Director of Personnel, after an extensive search that included many qualified candidates from across the state.
“I am so excited to join the Spartanburg District Five family,” Jackson says. “District Five has a longstanding tradition of providing quality education to students, and a wholesome environment for employees. It’s why the district is so recognized and respected across the state.”
Jackson comes to District Five from Richland School District Two, where he currently serves as Principal of Westwood High School. Prior to joining Westwood in 2020, Jackson led Longleaf Middle School, also in Richland Two, through an impressive period of innovation and positive change. As Principal of Longleaf, he implemented a comprehensive school reform model, that included the school’s new Engineering and Arts magnet program, along with a School for Zoological and Botanical Studies.
Jackson’s impressive 31-year education career includes experience that spans the primary, elementary, middle and secondary levels. He began his school administrative career as an Assistant Principal at Barnwell High School in Barnwell School District 45, before moving on to the same role at Dutch Fork High School in Lexington-Richland District Five. The veteran educator earned his first Principal position at Irmo Middle School in 2012, where he remained until 2017. While at Irmo, his school earned the prestigious Palmetto Gold award from the State Department of Education for exemplary student achievement over five consecutive years.
Jackson started his education career in the classroom as a physical education, health, and science teacher, as well as a coach, in Lake City, SC. He earned his Bachelors of Science degree in Physical Education from South Carolina State University, along with a Masters in Sports Management from the United States Sports Academy. He holds an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from South Carolina State, and is currently pursuing his Doctorate degree from the same school, also in Educational Leadership. Jackson is a graduate of the esteemed SC Policy Fellows program, and recently received the 4A “Principal of the Year” award from the South Carolina Athletic Administrator Association for his positive influence on interscholastic athletics.
“As District Five is navigating a period of tremendous growth, Mr. Jackson is the perfect person to lead us through this pivotal time,” says Superintendent Dr. Randall Gary. “I’m thrilled to have his experience and vision, along with his enthusiasm, to ensure District Five remains a place where more people choose to work, and love to stay.”
Having experience in growing districts, Jackson says he’s ready for the challenge. “I’m excited to be part of the district’s growth, and I’m looking forward to connecting with employees and cultivating an environment that reinforces the district’s mission, vision and values. We want to be hiring the best possible teachers and staff members, so that we can ensure the best opportunities for every child, every day.”
Jackson will officially assume his new role on July 1, taking over for current Director of Personnel, Heather Lister, who was recently named District Five’s Chief of Staff.